Contemporary Dance and Improvisation Volume I with Desmond Richardson DVD

In this exclusive DVD, legendary Desmond Richardson, Artistic Director of Complexions Contemporary Ballet, will teach you an innovative contemporary dance combination. Desmond also shares his tips on how to incorporate improvisation into the movement with detailed explanations and breath-taking examples. Improvisation skills are very important as they are used in dance classes, auditions and are often required in professional jobs. Enjoy the unique opportunity to watch Desmond dance the movement the way it was envisioned. “Remember to have fun! I love the art of dance and it is my greatest pleasure to share it with you...” - Desmond Richardson.

Hailed by the New York Times as one of the great modern dancers of his time, Desmond Richardson is a multi-talented artist who has mastered a wide range of dance forms including classical, modern, and contemporary. Richardson’s immense talent was first recognized as a student at New York High School for the Performing Arts during which time he received a merit scholarship from the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center (1983-1986) and the International Academie des Tanz in Koln, Germany (1984-1985). He is also a recipient of a Presidential Scholar Award for the Arts (1986).

In 1987, Richardson joined the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater where he was a principal dancer for seven years. After leaving the Ailey Company, he traveled to Germany where he performed with Ballet Frankfurt. Richardson has performed as a guest artist with several world-renowned companies including the Swedish Opera Ballet, the Washington Ballet, Teatro at La Scala, and the San Francisco Ballet.

In 1997, he joined the American Ballet Theater where he performed the lead role in the company’s world premiere production of Othello. In its description of Richardson’s performance in that role, the New York Times described him as one of the most majestic dancers ever to tread the MET Stage. In 1998, Richardson joined the premiere cast of the Broadway Musical Fosse for which he received a 1999 Tony Award Nomination. He has also appeared on Broadway in the musical, The Look of Love and in the critically acclaimed Movin’ Out. He had a principal role in Debbie Allen’s dance/theatrical presentation, Soul Possessed, which premiered at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in 1999.

Richardson has worked in television, film, and video in the United States and abroad. These experiences have allowed him to perform with such musical artists as Michael Jackson, Prince, Aretha Franklin, and Madonna. He is featured in Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi’s film, One Last Dance and the Oscar winning Chicago. He made his singing debut in Charles Randolph Wright’s 2005 film, Preaching to the Choir, performed the lead role of Beowulf in Julie Taymor’s Grendel at the LA Opera, Richardson recently appeared in Taymor’s Film, Across the Universe.

His recent honors include the Alvin Ailey School’s 2006 Apex award and the prestigous 2007 Dance Magazine Award. Recently Richardson partnered & performed with Diana Vishneva, in her one women show Beauty in Motion, at New York City Center and St.Petersburg, Russia, and is one of two Dancers invited by the President of the United States to perform in the 60th Presidential Conference in Israel May 08.

Lifts Volume I with Jeff Amsden featuring Katy Spreadbury DVD

In this video, Jeff Amsden teaches the proper technique for executing lifts. Join him as he covers such topics as hand placement, the use of your legs while lifting, supporting your lower back, timing and many other important factors necessary to execute lifts safely.

The lifts featured in this video range from intermediate to advanced in difficulty with a special section that covers girls lifting girls. Finally, these breathtaking lifts are broken down in a step-by-step manner so that anyone can learn to perform them. Adding theses beautiful movements to your choreography will bring an exciting element to any style of choreography whether ballet, lyrical-contemporary, jazz or musical theater. This is a must have for any dancer's library.

Jeff is also a Master Teacher in a number of diverse dance styles including jazz, lyrical, and ballet. He has been a guest teacher in Japan, Italy, and at London's Pineapple Studios, University of Idaho, Cornish Institute of the Arts, Texas Christian University, Colorado State University, and other studios throughout the world. Jeff currently teaches at Broadway Dance Center in New York City and Tremaine Dance Convention.

Katy Spreadbury is a dancer, teacher and choreographer from Worcester, Massachusetts. In her youth, her talent was recognized by competitions and magazines alike. She’s been named Miss Dance of America, America’s Choreographer of the Year, and Capezio’s Future Star, as well as having appeared as a featured artist in both Dance and Dance Spirit Magazine.

As a professional, Katy’s dancing has taken her all over the country. She is continually sought after as a guest artist, has performed alongside legends such as Ben Vereen and Karen Ziemba, and has most recently danced as a featured performer for the Astaire Awards in New York City. An amazing performer who teaches with a kind heart and a strong will. Her undeniable technique and passion for dance is evident every time she teaches.

As an instructor, Katy is recognized to be an incredible motivator, a positive spirit, and a fountain of knowledge. She has quickly become the sweetheart of the convention circuit, and continues to remain in high demand throughout the country as teacher who wants to make a difference. Currently she is on faculty, touring with JUMP - the dance convention.

Burn at the Barre: Total Dancer Body Workout for All Levels DVD

A long lean, strong and sexy body is yours with this all-level barre workout.

The Pilates Sports Center team comprised of a professional dancer, Certified Pilates Instructors and a Chiropractor, created this amazing workout which will deliver the results you want!

Transform your body into a dancer’s physique and notice the results in as little as five workouts! This fabulous workout has driving beats at 128 BPM and is appropriate for all levels. There are three levels to choose from, and safety tips to ensure a safe and effective workout. Have fun and enjoy Burn at the Barre!

The Pure Barre Flatirons Volume 1 DVD is for the beginner to intermediate Pure Barre enthusiast who wants the most effective workout possible. This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions.

Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek Dorr leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it the most. You will begin with a warm-up to melt away fat and shape your upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer. All you have to do is this DVD 2-3 times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.

Pure Barre: Pershing Square 1 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD

The Pure Barre Pershing Square Volume 1 DVD is for the beginner to intermediate Pure Barre enthusiast who wants the most effective workout possible.

This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions. Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most.

You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer. All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.

Pure Barre: Pershing Square 2 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD

The Pure Barre Pershing Square Volume 2 DVD is for the advanced Pure Barre enthusiast who wants the most effective workout possible.

This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions. Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most.

You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer. All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.

Pure Barre: Lowry Lofts 1 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD

The Pure Barre: Lowry Lofts Volume 1 DVD is for the beginner to intermediate Pure Barre enthusiast who wants the most effective workout possible. This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions.

Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most.

You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer. All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique. While no equipment is required, both an exercise mat and a small resistance ring are suggested for use with this DVD.

Pure Barre: Lowry Lofts 2 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD

The Pure Barre: Lowry Lofts Volume 2 DVD is for the advanced Pure Barre enthusiast who wants to take their workout to the next level. This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions.

Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most.

You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer. All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique. While no equipment is required, both an exercise mat and a small resistance ring are suggested for use with this DVD.

Pure Barre: 16th Street Vol. 1 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD

The Pure Barre: 16th Street Volume 1 DVD is for the beginner to intermediate Pure Barre enthusiast who wants the most effective workout possible. This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions.

Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most. You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer.

All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.

Pure Barre: 16th Street Vol. 2 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD

The Pure Barre: 16th Street Volume 2 DVD is for the advanced Pure Barre enthusiast who wants take their workout to the next level. This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions.

Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most. You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer.

All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.

Between the Barres - Music for the Ballet Class - 2 Disc CDs

Dance Class - New Music for Barre & Centre CD

This album presents the artistry of Whit Kellogg and Antoinette Peloso in a diverse repertoire arranged for the ballet class. Entries for barre & centre can be interchanged and used for combinations other than those designated on the disc. This CD features longer bands with no repeats. We hope these selections will inspire teachers and students alike.

Whit Kellogg has been a member of the Metropolitan Opera Music Staff for over twenty years. Primarily involved with dancers and choreographers, he has in the process worked with a vast array of singers intimately involved with most choreographic efforts. For nineteen years he was musical director of the Chautauqua Summer Dance Program and performed as soloist with the Chautauqua Symphony. He also plays for New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, and the School of American Ballet for whom he recently performed Chopiniana at the Juilliard Theater. For two summers he has been on the coaching staff of the Bel Canto Institute in New Paltz, New York. He can be seen in MGM’s film adaptation of John Guare’s “Six Degrees of Separation”.

Antoinette Peloso was a long-time member and principal dancer with the Metropolitan Opera Company at New York’s Lincoln Center. During her tenure she had the opportunity to work with opera’s brightest stars as well as many ballet luminaries, including; George Balanchine, Alvin Ailey, Antony Tudor, Natalia Makarova, Fernando Bujones and Antony Dowell. Born and raised in New Mexico, at age thirteen Antoinette auditioned for and won admission to England’s Royal Ballet School. Over the next five years she received extensive training in classical and character techniques. Working with the Royal Ballets’ top coaches and teachers, she was schooled in the Vaganova and Cechetti methods. After graduating with Honors she returned to the United States and began dancing professionally in New York. In addition to her seasons at the Metropolitan Opera, Antoinette has been a guest artist with numerous ballet companies, dancing roles in; Giselle, Swan Lake, Cinderella, The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Spartacus and Les Sylphides, among others. In recent years she has been teaching Technique & Pointe classes in New York.

Continue to learn how to incorporate improvisation into your movement with detailed explanations and breath-taking demonstrations.

Improvisational skills are very important as they are used in dance classes, auditions and often required in professional jobs. Enjoy the unique opportunity to watch Desmond dance the movement the way he envisions it.

Attitude Tu DVD

The Attitude Ballet Pilates Fusion classes have become a popular workout for anyone looking to improve balance, coordination, posture, and grace.

Attitude Tu is the next step on your Attitude journey. More challenging balance work, unique strength techniques using exercise bands and our popular ball routines, classic Pilates mat with a JUST b touch!

Shape Up with David Howard DVD

“Shape Up is without a doubt, the ideal way to achieve head to toe fitness. It is marvelous for flexibility. It tones and strengthens every part of the body”. - Natalia Makarova. “To develop poise, improve body image and keep fit: Shape Up is an excellent program of exercise”. – Vogue Magazine.

Shape Up is a unique exercise program designed by America’s foremost ballet master David Howard. These energizing and strengthening exercises provide a complete workout for all fitness levels and offer a varied mixture of aerobic techniques that target your body’s core muscle groups toning and conditioning them.

This fun and exciting program also features top Broadway dancers performing some of the shown techniques to a musical score by Douglas Corbin.

David Howard, ballet master, teacher and coach was a soloist with the Royal Ballet and the National Ballet of Canada. Mr. Howard opened his world famous school on Manhattan’s upper west side in 1977. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the National Association for Regional Ballet, and served as its President from 1976-1979. He has been a guest teacher for New York’s Metropolitan Opera, the Joffrey, Boston Ballet, the National Ballet of Canada and the Ballet de Marseilles. David Howard has coached many of the world’s foremost dancers and celebrities including Natalia Makarova, Gelsey Kirkland, Valery and Galina Panov, Patrick Bissell, Cynthia Harvey and many others.

Element Mind & Body Experience: Ballet Conditioning DVD

Ballet Dancers always have slender bodies that are both strong and lean with lovely proportion and gorgeous body lines. One of the greatest secrets to a dancer's body is ballet conditioning, which focuses on all muscle groups.

In this unique program, your muscles will work smoothly in unison to create a long, streamlined silhouette with flat abs, a lean lower body and beautifully defined curves. Moving gracefully and fluidly through this series of exercises, you will strengthen and stretch your way to a dancer’s body.

Elise Gulan has over 18 years in dance education including Ballet, Pointe, Tap and Jazz. She was a principal soloist for the Virginia Ballet Company where she danced for seven years appearing in productions such as Copelia, Swan Lake and Nutcracker Suite. She brought her love of expression through movement to her new career as a certified personal trainer and instructor of Yoga, Core Fusion® and Core Energy Flow®.

Elise enjoys helping her students to find their inner strength and to energize their joy of life through physical and mental fitness. Element is proud to support the Arbor Day Foundation. For every four Element DVDs purchased, a tree will be planted (up to 20,000 trees annually). In addition to generating oxygen, trees provide air pollution control and decrease atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, thereby reducing global warming. www.arborday.org.

Ballet for Boys with Richard Glasstone DVD

The perfect introduction to ballet for boys and young men.

This program presents, in a clear and understandable style, the building blocks of movement which include: bending, extending, rising, jumping, turning and darting while teaching how to co-ordinate these movements rhythmically. Specially designed and presented by world-renowned ballet teacher Richard Glasstone, this program is demonstrated by young beginners, late starters, and a professional dancer.

Bob Rizzo's All That Dance DVD

With Keith Clifton. All about variety! All about fun! A complete dance video that encompasses the best in Jazz, Ballet and Lyrical. Never a dull moment as Keith Clifton takes you through high energy Jazz, gorgeous Lyrical, and Ballet choreography that’s as delicate as it is powerful.

With music composed by Keith Clifton, All That Dance will encourage dancers to tap the range and versatility they all possess. Designed for the intermediate and advanced dancer, the three routines are taught in segments with both front and back views!

Keith Clifton is an acclaimed dancer, teacher and choreographer based in Los Angeles. His work includes commercials for Dr. Pepper, Wendy’s, Dodge, McDonald’s and Levis Jeans. As a musician, Keith composes his own music and currently performs with the Clifton Drum Tap Trio. Music from this DVD is available on the All That Dance CD below.

Bob Rizzo's All That Dance CD

Ballet with Style DVD

Kathy Sullivan teaches four lively and exciting Ballet routines designed for all levels. Using traditional Ballet steps, each dance has it’s own theatrical flair to really showcase the dancers’ personalities. Shown in performance, then slowly broken down in segments, the steps and style are easy to learn!

Kathy teaches Ballet and Pointe at STEPS on Broadway and is on faculty at Barnard College and New York University. Formerly with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, she now choreographs in a variety of styles and her works are frequently presented in NYC.

Budding Ballerinas - Pre-School DVD

This imaginative class ties together the best elements of creative movement with the structure of classical Ballet. A great introduction for first-time students who want to study Ballet in an enjoyable environment. Teachers will find helpful hints and imagery that will stimulate the minds of their young dancers.

Ballet 101 - A Beginner's Class DVD

Bring a beginning ballet class right into the privacy of your living room. This is a simple, stress free and informative session that challenges both adults and children who wish to be introduced to the world of the arts. Dancers are taken on a step-by-step journey that begins with preparation and warm-up, paces them through easy ballet moves and ends with a grand finale incorporating what's been taught.

Ballet 101 is an easy to follow, hands-on tape that is based upon the syllabus of a major University of California program and is endorsed by private instructors. A printed enclosure assists the dancer with ballet terms. Great preparation video, even if you plan to take classes.

I'm A Ballerina Now DVD

This program was created to inspire and help children realize their dreams of becoming a dancer. It is a complete ballet class for young beginners. Lyrics are sung to beautiful music which aid the child in remembering the dance exercises and performing them correctly. The young dancer's dream is visualized during each exercise when a real ballerina appears and performs the same steps which the child is working on. This is also an excellent guide for parents looking for a dance school for their child. It shows the types of exercises that should be a part of every ballet class.

Former American Ballet Theatre Ballerina Michelle Benash has designed an instructional Pointe video for all levels. Ms. Benash provides exercises and guidelines that develop technique and strength on Pointe. Included are barre and center for Beg-Int-Adv levels and a beautiful variation for the int/adv dancer.

"This video is a must for serious teachers and students who care about the healthy developmental approach to this demanding art form. Michelle Benash intelligently lays the groundwork for a dancers evolution toward a professional career." Kirk Peterson, Ballet Master, American Ballet Theatre.